The 2017 F1 season is almost upon us and one can be assured that during the course of the 21-race season, there will be many twists in the tale as the chicanes come thick and fast, making seasoned racers and rookies alike spiral out of control.
The Statesman has listed the tracks that have that extra bit of oomph, for a multitude of reasons, in chronological order.
Monaco GP: Monte Carlo
Glamour is synonymous with F1 and no Grand Prix is higher on glitz than the Monaco that is hosted in the French principality. Having the unique honour of being the only race in which the organisers do not pay a fee to the F1 group, it is the last ‘old-school style’ street circuit still standing. What you do here in qualifying is arguably even more important than Sunday’s race, for overtaking is nigh impossible in those narrow streets, which aren't meant for the broad F1 cars of today. So when a daredevil (Kimi Raikkonen, Max Verstappen we are looking at you!) does manage to overtake, it is safe to say that move becomes the highlight of the race. Among the shortest circuits at 3.337 km, winning the Monaco GP alone is enough to guarantee you a place among the all-time greats.
Most number of titles: Ayrton Senna (6).
British GP: Silverstone
The only GP on the British Isles is one steeped in tradition. Silverstone was initially an aerodrome and holds the distinct honour of holding the season-opening race of the first F1 season way back in 1950. Plenty of layout changes have significantly changed the shape of some turns and bends since inception, but the essence of the iconic Silverstone remains. Races here are fast and furious and we wouldn't have it any other way, with plenty of fast-corners adding to the exhilarating action.
Most number of titles: Jim Clark (5).
Belgian GP: Spa-Francorchamps
Most racing aficionados will agree that the Spa is the best F1 track there is and while that debate will rage on long into the night, nobody can dispute the fact the longest circuit on the calendar is also among the most testing. While the original track (deemed too dangerous for F1!) was a real killer, the newer, younger version is hard to get a handle as well. A testament to that fact is that only six men have ever won it more than once. And if the track wasn’t challenging enough, the weather is notoriously fickle, almost always adding an extra bit of a challenge.
Most number of titles: Michael Schumacher (6).
Italian GP: Monza
The ‘home’ Grand Prix for F1’s most iconic team: Ferrari, Monza is almost always packed to the brim (mostly fans of the ‘Prancing Horse’) and while the race has a tragic history perhaps unlike any other, in terms of sheer neck-to-neck driving, there are few that rival it. Fast is a strange word to throw around in a motorsport such as F1, but La Pista Magica is definitely that and more and perhaps that is why it has hosted more grand prix than any other circuit.
Most number of titles: Michael Schumacher (5)
Singapore GP: Singapore
The only night race in the F1 calendar, Singapore is the newest entry on its list, established as recently as 2008. A street-circuit around the Marina Bay Arena, it is among the most picturesque races there are, thanks in no small part to Singapore’s stunning skyline that exudes charisma in the backdrop. Rumours are swirling that this may be the last year Singapore hosts a Grand Prix, however, so enjoy this floodlit-spectacle while it lasts!
Most number of titles: Sebastian Vettel (4)
Japanese GP: Suzuka
Last but not the least, it may surprise you to know that from a pure racing perspective, Suzuka is considered the finest track F1 has on its calendar. History suggests this is the place to be if you wish to witness the world champion being crowned, due to its unique place in the calendar. Arguably the only track that has seen minor changes since its inception, Suzuka has been witness to some furious battles, not least one enjoyed by spectators during the Ayrton Senna-Alain Prost years.
Most number of titles: Michael Schumacher (6)